SECTOR 4 Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator. 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 3.1 (2008 = 2.6) 4.2 The standard of reporting follows the basic principles of accuracy and fairness. The development of journalism in Nigeria has followed two paths over the past 50 years. Though there is evidence that some editors and journalists make an effort to get all sides to a story and present facts and opinions accurately, there is equally strong evidence of floppy journalism. There has been a marked fall in the number of complaints and libel suits against media, which might suggest that respect for the basic principles of journalism has improved. Critics, however, point out that there is no adequate and visible attempt by journalists to provide balanced reports or to fact-check nine out of ten stories. Attaining acceptable standards of accuracy and fairness is hampered by factors that include the inability of journalists to grasp the essence and even the basic facts of news events. Many journalists do not have the basic skills required for news reporting, and are totally unaware of the ethical principles of the profession. Reporters do not question the statements made by news sources, thus reducing themselves to no more than copy clerks of what in some instances sound like aberrations. Laziness has also crept in, allowing “armchair journalism” to prosper. Because of this approach, reporters have resorted to an abusive use of “anonymous sources”, which in many instances simply means imaginary sources. The different appellations used to describe these so called sources range from “most trusted” to “impeccable”. Journalists also often fall victim to manipulation by powerful politicians and businessmen and women who want to settle personal or political scores. “The culture in Nigeria is to get outside your means, if need be, to achieve an end” and this is often reflected in the way journalists work. A panellist recounted the story of a reporter who turned in a story on event that he/she never attended. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NIGERIA 2011 47